Hyde Park: Australia's oldest park
Named after the very famous park in central London, Hyde Park is part of a vast and scenic green belt in the heart of the city, just to the east of the central business district. Gazetted in 1810, Hyde Park holds the title of Australia’s oldest park, and even before it was officially established, the site was used as a place of sport and recreation by Australia’s earliest colonial inhabitants.
Over the years, Hyde Park has variously been used as a racecourse, a cricket ground and a military training area for the troops stationed at Hyde Park Barracks. It staged Australia’s first ever rugby match in 1865 and even played host to bare-knuckle boxing matches, set up by the New South Wales Corp., who’d organise fights between soldiers and convicts for their own amusement.
Today the atmosphere of the park is decidedly more laid back, and the only reminder of its competitive heritage is a giant playable chess set that features on the northern side of the park. The park is favoured by office workers seeking a break from the concrete jungle, as well as picnicking families, strolling couples, tourists, shutterbugs and pigeon-feeders.
The park is a serene expanse of green lawns and gardens, home to some 600 trees and an abundance of flowering plants. Among the many historic monuments scattered around the grounds is the famous Archibold Memorial Fountain, widely considered to be the finest public fountain in Australia. Designed by French artist Francois Sicard and unveiled in 1932, its elaborate classical sculptures depict figures from Greek Mythology.
Hyde Park comes alive during festivals and cultural celebrations playing host to annual events such as the Sydney Festival, the Food and Wine Fair, and a major ANZAC Day memorial service.
With plenty of shady space for a midday siesta, a leisurely picnic or an energetic stroll, Hyde Park is a perfect place to take some time out without having to stray from the city centre.
Posted by Fiona Davies
